Qatar’s Prime Minister announced support for Lebanon as it forms a new government. Qatar has been aiding the Lebanese army and will continue to do so while looking forward to a strategic partnership. Discussions around energy exploration also took place, linking Qatar’s role in Lebanon’s recovery to the ongoing geopolitical issues with Israel and Hezbollah.
On Tuesday, the Prime Minister of Qatar announced the country’s commitment to assist Lebanon following the establishment of a new government. Qatar has been actively providing financial support to the Lebanese army, aiding in fuel and salary provisions. Lebanon’s need for foreign investments is critical, especially to address the substantial reconstruction costs inflicted by the recent conflict with Israel and Hezbollah.
During a press conference in Beirut post-meeting with President Joseph Aoun, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani declared Qatar’s intent to sustain its support for the Lebanese army. He expressed optimism about forming a strategic partnership grounded in mutual interests once the Lebanese government is fully operational. Al Thani further noted positive developments in Lebanon’s political situation and neighboring Syria.
President Aoun conveyed expectations that TotalEnergies would reinstate oil and gas exploration off Lebanon’s coast. In 2023, QatarEnergy joined forces with TotalEnergies and Eni in a collaborative effort to explore oil and gas reserves within two maritime blocks in the region. This collaboration signifies Qatar’s growing involvement in Lebanon’s energy sector amidst its political shifts.
Sheikh Mohammed also held discussions with key Lebanese figures, including caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Prime Minister-elect Nawaf Salam, who is poised to form the new cabinet. Salam, previously the International Court of Justice head, was nominated on January 13. The U.S. has urged Lebanese leaders not to permit Hezbollah or its ally Amal to influence the selection of Lebanon’s next finance minister.
Recent tensions escalated between Hezbollah and Israel following attacks from Hamas, impacting southern Israel communities and triggering wider conflict. Israel’s military operations against Hezbollah sought to facilitate the return of displaced citizens affected by the conflict at the border. A ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel was reached in November, easing some of the immediate hostilities.
The recent political changes in Lebanon are crucial to understanding the international support required for its recovery. The Lebanese army is currently reliant on foreign grants, particularly from Qatar, following the devastation caused by the war with Israel. Lebanon’s reconstruction heavily depends on regained stability and governmental cooperation within both local and foreign frameworks, especially concerning energy resources in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
Qatar’s support for Lebanon, articulated by Prime Minister Al Thani, signifies the importance of international partnerships amid Lebanon’s political restoration. With ongoing collaborations in energy exploration and military aid, Qatar’s strategic involvement could play a pivotal role in Lebanon’s economic recovery and political stability. As Lebanon navigates these challenges, careful political maneuvering will be essential to prevent external influences from destabilizing the forthcoming government.
Original Source: english.aawsat.com
